Unveiling the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 97 Specs Prices Pros & Cons Revealed

Introduction to Samsung Galaxy Tab A 9.7

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A 9.7, launched in 2015, remains a significant piece of technology, representing a bridge between usability, efficiency, and affordability. Although it was discontinued, its impact on the market and its users was noteworthy. With a balanced blend of performance, design, and functionality, the Galaxy Tab A catered extensively to users looking for a device capable of handling everyday tasks efficiently.

Design and Build Quality

One of the Galaxy Tab A 9.7’s standout features is its design. The tablet measures 242.5 x 166.8 x 7.5 mm, making it a slim and moderately lightweight device at approximately 450 g for the Wi-Fi version. The smooth, premium finish available in colors like Smoky Titanium, Smoky Blue, and White provides an aesthetically pleasing look, ensuring that the device doesn't just feel comfortable in the hand, but also looks good in any environment. The build quality is robust, making it durable enough for daily wear and tear, maintaining Samsung's reputation for durable devices.

Display

The display of the Galaxy Tab A 9.7 is a 9.7-inch TFT type screen, supporting a 768 x 1024 pixel resolution. The 4:3 aspect ratio and ~132 ppi density may not compete with high-end modern screens, but it has been engineered for readability and acceptable color representation. The screen size is ideal for reading, browsing the web, and watching videos, providing a compelling multimedia experience for the user.

Performance and Hardware

At the heart of the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 9.7 lies a Quad-core 1.2 GHz processor. Though considered basic by modern standards, at the time, it provided sufficient power for handling most applications and multitasking needs. Available in versions with 1.5GB RAM for Wi-Fi and 2GB RAM for the LTE variants, this tablet ensured a reasonably smooth user experience.

The internal storage options of 16GB and 32GB, which can be expanded via a microSDXC card, give users flexibility according to their data retention needs. While the Galaxy Tab A might not win any awards for raw power, it was meticulously designed to deliver satisfactory performance for the general user.

Camera Capabilities

The tablet comes equipped with a 5 MP main camera that supports autofocus, useful for capturing everyday moments with reasonable clarity. Video recording is possible at 720p@30fps, which was adequate for basic needs at the time. On the front, a 2 MP camera is present for selfies and video calls, providing basic functionality for its user base.

Battery Life

One of the Galaxy Tab A 9.7’s standout features is its long battery life, thanks to the non-removable Li-Ion 6000 mAh battery. It offers up to 14 hours and 30 minutes of multimedia use and up to 40 hours on 3G talk time, making it a reliable companion for prolonged usage without constant recharging. Music playback can go up to 160 hours, which is quite impressive for music enthusiasts.

Network and Connectivity

The Galaxy Tab A 9.7 offers a wide array of connectivity options, reflecting its role as a versatile device. Supporting GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks, it ensures a strong and stable connection virtually anywhere. The LTE Cat4 support facilitates download speeds up to 150 Mbps, providing a fluid internet experience.

Additional connectivity features include Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band Wi-Fi Direct, and hotspot capabilities. Bluetooth 4.1 is present for connecting to peripheral devices, alongside GPS and GLONASS for precise location tracking. However, it does not support NFC and radio.

Sound and Multimedia

The multimedia experience on the Galaxy Tab A 9.7 is augmented by dual loudspeakers, which deliver clear and loud sound suitable for consuming media. The presence of a 3.5mm headphone jack ensures that users can use their favorite headphones easily, further improving the audio experience during gaming, watching videos, or listening to music.

Software Features

Operating on Android 5.0 (Lollipop) with an upgrade path to Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow), the Galaxy Tab A benefits from Samsung's user-friendly custom UI. The interface is designed for intuitive user interaction, providing access to various apps and services smoothly. Although it lacks some modern software features, it caters effectively to the basic needs of users.

The tablet includes an accelerometer sensor, which enables it to respond to physical motion, enhancing gaming and includes additional software experiences, such as screen rotation.

Price and Market Impact

Upon its release, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 9.7 was priced at around 250 EUR, making it an accessible option for those seeking an affordable yet functional tablet. Although it has since been discontinued, during its time it served a vast range of users from students to professionals, offering a dependable device for multiple applications.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A 9.7 encapsulates what many users desire in a tablet—a balance between performance, affordability, and functionality. Despite being succeeded by newer models, it highlighted Samsung's commitment to producing efficient and practical devices that cater to a broad audience. While it may not have the advanced features seen in current tablets, it remains a commendable option for basic tasks and continues to serve its purpose effectively for users who own it. Its robust design, adequate performance, and long battery life ensure it remains a relevant choice for specific market needs.